8-Day Enchanting Journey through Madurai, Rameswaram, Kodaikanal, and Coimbatore

Day 1: Explore Madurai

Madurai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop

Kickstart your day with authentic South Indian breakfast featuring fluffy idlis and spicy sambar.
Head towards the restaurant, which is situated in the city centre.
INR 150, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

Marvel at the intricate sculptures and vibrant architecture of this iconic temple, a symbol of Madurai.
A short 10-minute drive from the breakfast spot.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Simmakkal Curry Chaap

Indulge in a traditional Tamil meal with a variety of delicious curries and fluffy rice.
15 minutes drive from the temple.
INR 300, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Thiruparankundram Temple

Visit this rock-cut temple, one of the six abodes of Lord Murugan, situated on a hilltop with scenic views.
20 minutes drive from the lunch spot.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit Gandhi Memorial Museum

Learn about the life of Mahatma Gandhi and his connections to Madurai at this serene museum.
15 minutes drive from the temple.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Evening snack at Jigarthanda Special

Savour Madurai's famous Jigarthanda, a refreshing cold dessert perfect for the evening.
A short drive of 10 minutes from the museum.
INR 100, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Stroll around the historic Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

Take in the grandeur of the 17th-century palace illuminated at dusk; it’s a perfect photographic spot.
5 minutes drive from the snack place.
INR 50, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at The Curry Kitchen

Enjoy a delectable dinner featuring various Indian delicacies in a cosy ambience.
10 minutes to drive to the restaurant.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Insights in Madurai

Madurai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Idli Vilas

Relish soft idlis served with spicy chutneys to energise your day.
Located centrally.
INR 120, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Alagar Koyil

Visit this beautiful hill temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, surrounded by lush greenery.
30 minutes from your hotel.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Sri Karpagavinayak Bangalow

Enjoy a satisfying Thali meal here, bursting with flavours, vegetable curries, and rice.
25 minutes drive back to Madurai city.
INR 350, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Shopping at Puthu Mandapam

Explore this vibrant market known for textiles and beautiful handicrafts, perfect for souvenirs.
Just 10 minutes from the lunch spot.
Free - depends on shopping, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit Kottai Meenakshi Temple

An ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi; admire the serene atmosphere.
5 minutes drive from the market.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Coffee at Amma Unavagam

Sample rich, aromatic South Indian coffee at this local favourite spot.
5 minutes drive away.
INR 50, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Attend the Aarti at Meenakshi Amman Temple

Experience the spiritual Aarti ceremony, a captivating view of rituals with devotional singing.
Walk back to the temple from the coffee shop.
Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Sanjay's Restaurant

Finish your day with a wholesome dinner featuring a mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.
Short 10-minute drive.
INR 400, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Excursion to Rameswaram

Rameswaram, India

8:00AM

Departure for Rameswaram

Set off early for Rameswaram, experiencing scenic views along the coastal route.
Drive directly to Rameswaram, estimated 3 hours.
N/A, 3 hours

11:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Queen Palace

Refuel with a hearty breakfast, featuring regional seafood and delicious parathas.
Conveniently located as you arrive.
INR 300, 1 hour

12:00PM

Visit Ramanathaswamy Temple

Explore this sacred temple known for its magnificent architecture and 22 holy wells.
Just a short walk from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at the Temple’s Eating House

Savour simple yet delightful vegetarian meals served in the temple complex.
Onsite at the temple.
INR 100, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit Agni Theertham Beach

Take a dip in the sacred waters at this beach, known for its spiritual significance.
5 minutes drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Explore Dhanushkodi

Walk through the ruins of this ghost town at the tip of Rameswaram, a picturesque locale.
20 minutes drive from the beach.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Sea View Restaurant

Wind down the day with a coastal meal, featuring fresh fish and local delicacies.
30 minutes drive back into Rameswaram.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Return to Madurai

Madurai, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Sea View

Enjoy a restful breakfast with a view of the ocean, including upma and fresh fruit.
Located next to your hotel.
INR 250, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive back to Madurai

Depart Rameswaram after breakfast heading back to Madurai.
Travel directly, around 3 hours.
N/A, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Aasai Restaurant

Savour a traditional meal with Sambar rice and fried fish on the side.
15 minutes from your hotel in Madurai.
INR 400, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Sound and Light Show at Meenakshi Temple

Experience the vibrant history of Madurai unfold through light and sound at Meenakshi Temple.
10 minutes away from the restaurant.
INR 200, 1 hour

4:00PM

Relax at your hotel

Spend some time unwinding before dinner; perhaps a short nap or enjoy hotel amenities.
Return to your hotel.
N/A, 1 hour

5:30PM

Evening stroll in Madurai

Take a leisurely walk through the local streets, engaging with local culture and scenery.
Walk around near the hotel area.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Royal Court

Enjoy fine dining with a mix of North and South Indian cuisines.
10 minutes to drive to the restaurant.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Journey to Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Start your day with a satisfying breakfast buffet featuring a variety of choices.
At your Madurai hotel.
N/A, 1 hour

9:00AM

Departure for Kodaikanal

Set off for the scenic hill station of Kodaikanal, known for its serene lakes and lush landscapes.
2.5 hours drive via scenic routes.
N/A, 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Check-in at your hotel

Get settled in your hotel and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
A short drive from the bus stop.
N/A, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Astoria Veg Restaurant

Relish a wholesome vegetarian meal with fresh ingredients.
Only 10 minutes from your hotel.
INR 300, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Kodaikanal Lake

Rent a boat and paddle around the tranquil lake, surrounded by beautiful scenery.
Drive 5 minutes to the lake.
INR 100 per person, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Coaker's Walk

Stroll along this scenic pathway with stunning views of the valleys below.
10 minutes drive from the lake.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Evening tea at a local café

Sip tea while enjoying the breathtaking views of the hills.
Close to Coaker's Walk.
INR 70, 30 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at The Tasmac Restaurant

Savour delightful multi-cuisine dinner with local specialties.
10 minutes from the café.
INR 400, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Discover Kodaikanal's Attractions

Kodaikanal, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a delicious spread of breakfast options, including eggs, toast, and fruits.
At your hotel.
N/A, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Berijam Lake

Explore the serene Berijam Lake, a scenic spot ideal for picnics and photography.
30 minutes drive from Kodaikanal town.
Free, 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Head to Pillar Rocks

Witness the impressive rock formations and stunning views of the surrounding area.
25 minutes drive from Berijam Lake.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Hilltop Hotel

Enjoy various continental and local dishes while overlooking breathtaking views.
15-minute drive from Pillar Rocks.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore the Kodaikanal Pine Forest

Take a peaceful walk through this beautiful forest area, breathing in fresh mountain air.
20 minutes from Hilltop Hotel.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory

Learn about the stars and space at this educational place - it’s unique and interesting.
15 minutes drive from the forest.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Return to hotel and relax

Take some downtime to reflect on your day's experiences.
Short drive back to your hotel.
N/A, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Cafe Cariappa

Enjoy a cozy dinner with local Kodaikanal delicacies and warm ambiance.
Nearby the hotel.
INR 350, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Travel to Coimbatore

Coimbatore, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a lavish breakfast with south Indian delights like dosa and coconut chutney.
At your Kodaikanal hotel.
N/A, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Coimbatore

Set out for Coimbatore, a well-known textile city, with scenic views en route.
About 3 hours drive.
N/A, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Shree Anandhaas

Satisfy your hunger with authentic South Indian meals served hot and fresh.
15 minutes from the city centre.
INR 250, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Adiyogi Shiva Statue

Explore the majestic 112-foot statue, a symbol of peace and spirituality.
30 minutes drive from the lunch area.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore ISKCON Coimbatore

Visit the serene ISKCON temple that offers spirituality and tranquility.
15 minutes drive from Adiyogi Shiva Statue.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Coffee at Café Coffee Day

Unwind with a cup of coffee and light snacks.
Nearby the ISKCON Temple.
INR 100, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Stroll at Codissia Trade Fair Complex

Wander through this exhibition space showcasing local products and handicrafts.
20 minutes drive from the café.
Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Hotel Saravana Bhavan

End your day with a delightful South Indian dinner known for their vegetarian dishes.
10 minutes from the Trade Fair complex.
INR 400, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Final Day in Coimbatore

Coimbatore, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast to fuel your final day, including parathas and fresh juices.
At your hotel.
N/A, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Perur Pateeswarar Temple

Admire the stunning temple architecture dedicated to Lord Shiva.
20 minutes drive from the hotel.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Shopping at Brookefields Mall

Spend your last hours indulging in some retail therapy at this popular shopping destination.
20 minutes away.
Free - depends on shopping, 2.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Residency

Enjoy a mix of local and international cuisine before bidding farewell.
10 minutes from the mall.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Coffee at a local café

Rejuvenate with some coffee and pastries while reminiscing about your trip.
Nearby the restaurant.
INR 150, 30 minutes

4:00PM

Pack and Check-out

Prepare for departure, packing all the memories of your wonderful journey.
At your hotel.
N/A, 1 hour
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